Graham Croker
More than 200 players, administrators and supporters soaked up the wisdom of Socceroos coach Holger Osieck, the passion of NSL veteran Andy Harper and Heather Garriock’s World Cup wishes for the Matildas, at the 2011 Blue & Gold Sydney University Soccer Football dinner held at Doltone House on Friday night.
While interviewer Adam Spencer eked out the thoughts of Osieck – on his interpretation of the shape of a team, the importance of team structure, knowing how to defend and how to adapt when the team wins the ball – Harper’s passion was brought out in a discussion with Wallaby, writer and stirrer Peter Fitzsimons.
Sydney FC captain Garriock was cautiously optimistic for the Matildas, who leave for Germany today to prepare for their first round World Cup match against Brazil scheduled for June 30.
Meanwhile, SUSFC President, Andrew Bray, told the audience the club was preparing for a bright future.
“In 2011, SUSFC caters for well over 650 players competing in 36 teams, making us one of the largest, sporting clubs on campus and most likely one of the largest senior football clubs in Australia,” Mr Bray said.
“The club has a clear understanding of where we have come from and where we are going, the continued desire to learn, to improve and succeed.
“This simple formula, combined with the tireless work and vision of many, has seen our club progress from strength to strength over the 65 years since our humble beginnings.”
The President said it was important to acknowledge some of those who had helped SUSFC get this far: Sydney University Sport & Fitness for substantial and ongoing support for the club and its goals, benefactors who support the extensive scholarship program, and players, coaches and administrators past and present.
“But we’re not satisfied with putting our feet up and patting ourselves on the back for a job well done,” he said.
“With an eye to the future, SUSFC is in a unique position. There is an increasing demand for the academic footballer and the club has the infrastructure to develop elite footballers and the means for them to simultaneously achieve a higher education and a secure future.”
The annual Blue & Gold dinner also turned up a talented understudy to the usual entertaining Master of Ceremonies Rodney Tubbs, who was unable to attend the function. SUSFC committee member Ross Xenos stepped into the breach and handled the duties with aplomb.
